In 1715, this handsome Colonial was a showpiece and, 302 years later, it still is. While an incredible amount of work was done to make this a home for the 21st Century, exceptional care was taken to preserve the character, history and patina expected in this magnificent 18th Century residence. That the house started out as a remarkable architectural wonder was a bonus.

The living room — or front parlor — is big, bright and beautiful with nine-foot-high (at least) ceiling and amazing wide pine floor boards. Oversized six-over-six, deep-set windows with Indian shutters and paneled wainscoting are more outstanding features but "spectacular" can only describe the fireplace wall.

The fireplace is centered on a fully shadowbox paneled wall flanked by identical "doors" with original H-L hinges — one opens to a closet; the other is decorative. Look closely at the ceiling over this wall, however. It curves.

The initial reaction is that considering its age, the house has settled. But this subtle and unique detail was planned. The curve is reminiscent of the stern of a ship — quite appropriate given the original sea captain owner.

This striking feature is also in the dining room on the other side of the entry. Here, too, deep set six-over-six windows with Indian shutters allow in ample light that highlights the flush-mount fireplace on a fully paneled wall with an adjacent closet. Exposed painted ceiling beams are in this room.

In the kitchen, period features like the brick fireplace with original hangers — they make a one-of-a-kind pot rack — and paneling blend harmoniously with contemporary beauties including black honed granite countertops and stainless steel appliances like the four-burner Bertazzoni gas stove. Well-designed cabinetry includes thoughtful details such as a narrow floor-to-ceiling spice rack. In case you thought antiques lack storage — a roomy (and lighted) walk-in pantry with wrap-around shelving is a step away.

For added convenience, a passthrough runs between the kitchen and the dining room.

This home has a root-cellar like basement but one with new utilities including heating/hot water systems, electric and — wait for it — central air conditioning.

A library/study or TV/play/sitting room is across from the kitchen but one of this home’s most captivating features, is along the way: a multi-glass paned door in a mini hallway. Ordinary at first glance, this opens to a wooden bridge that leads to the terraced yard with a "secret" garden vibe. Talk about having an outdoor hideaway complete with paver patio in the heart of Old Town. Nice.

Nevertheless, going back inside to the library is more than pleasant. This cozy room with a wall of four lighted cabinets — these have multi-glass pane doors with drawers below — also has a fireplace with overhead paneling. Three eight-over-12 windows along with a display ledge on the back wall add character and charm.

A half bathroom is on this floor, too.

On the second floor

Four bedrooms on this floor are filled with interesting and beautifully crafted details. The master suite, for example, which is over the living room, has a similar "ship stern" architectural effect over a flush-mount fireplace. The light-filled sleeping chamber with two six-over-six windows also has a large double closet and excellent ceiling height.

Modern sensibilities, however, rule in the charming en suite bathroom that has a step-in shower with a very contemporary frameless glass door.

An exposed painted ceiling beam highlights the "ship stern" effect in anther large front bedroom. Superb molding and paneling over the fireplace are additional focal points. Oh, check out the windows: they have eight-by-10-inch panes of glass.

The shared bathroom has a cast iron soaking tub and a decorative fireplace. This gem at the top of the back staircase is near a full-size stackable Bosch washer and dryer.

Wait ‘til you see the third floor …

Fully finished in a masterful blend of period and modern elements, this top level has all kinds of goodies including an exposed brick wall and skylight in the stairwell. A large sleeping chamber with an angled ceiling — it follows the roofline of the house — overlooks the terraced garden.

Besides a dressing room area that includes a deep single closet with wrap-around shelving and extra-wide double closets, this level has access to attic eave storage. Hold the "Wow" until you see the fully tiled steam shower with multiple shower heads in the en suite bathroom. Bead board walls add character, a skylight pizzazz.

House history old and new

Built for Captain Benjamin Trevett and his wife, Elizabeth Russell Trevett, in 1715, the house (according to the sign) was a gift from her brother, merchant Samuel Russell. A true Old Town treasure, the house is steeped in well-documented history with photos, prints and drawings authenticated in the Library of Congress.

More recently, the renovation team received a commendation from the Old Marblehead Improvement Association.

Contact Dick McKinley or Matt Dolan of Harborside Sotheby’s International Realty at 617-763-0415 or 617-816-1909 or by email: dick.McKinley@sothebysrealty.com or matt.Dolan@sothebysrealty.com.